As the packaging industry braces for the impactful regulations set forth by the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR), ePac Flexible Packaging is ready to exceed these new standards. With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and efficiency, ePac is well-positioned to lead in this transformative era for flexible packaging.
Embracing Lightweight Packaging
One of the key principles of the PPWR is reducing the environmental footprint of packaging. ePac’s flexible packaging solutions inherently offer significant advantages over traditional glass jars and plastic tubs. By switching to lightweight flexible packaging, customers can:
- Reduce CO2 Emissions: Flexible packaging is lighter and less bulky, which translates to lower transportation emissions compared to rigid containers.
- Save Space: The reduced volume of flexible packaging means more efficient storage and transport, leading to fewer shipments and further reducing carbon footprints.
- Minimise Material Usage: The inherent efficiency of flexible packaging results in less material being used overall, which aligns with PPWR’s goal of minimizing packaging waste.
Pioneering Mono-Material Structures
ePac has been at the forefront of developing mono-material structures, which are highly favoured under the PPWR due to their recyclability. Here’s how ePac’s innovation in this area supports the regulation:
- Polyethylene (PE) and Polypropylene (PP) Structures: ePac offers both low and high barrier mono-material structures, suitable for a variety of markets. These structures are designed to be easily recyclable, reducing the complexity of the recycling process.
- Avoiding Compostable/Biodegradable Packaging: Acknowledging the challenges associated with the disposal and breakdown of compostable and biodegradable materials, ePac has strategically focused on mono-materials from the start. This foresight ensures better compliance with PPWR’s recycling-centric approach.
Reducing Packaging Waste with Small and Frequent Production Runs
ePac’s approach to reducing packaging waste aligns perfectly with the PPWR’s goals:
- Small and Frequent Production Runs: ePac enables customers to produce smaller batches of packaging, which helps in minimising waste and avoiding overproduction. This flexibility is critical for businesses needing to adapt to changes quickly.
- No Plate Fees: With advanced printing technology, ePac eliminates the need for plate fees, allowing for frequent artwork changes without additional costs. This reduces obsolescence and prevents wastage due to outdated packaging.
Staying Close to the Supply Chain for Recycled Content
ePac recognises the importance of incorporating recycled content into packaging materials and is closely monitoring developments in this area. Here’s how they are addressing this:
- Post-Consumer Recycled (PCR) Material: Current supply chain constraints and high costs limit their immediate application. Moreover, PCR materials have limitations, particularly concerning direct food contact due to regulatory and safety concerns.
- Regulatory Compliance for Food Packaging: To ensure food safety and regulatory compliance, ePac does not currently use PCR materials for direct food contact applications. However, they are actively staying engaged with the supply chain and monitoring advancements in PCR material availability and quality.
ePac Flexible Packaging is leading the charge in the packaging industry by aligning its practices with the forthcoming PPWR requirements. Through innovations in lightweight and mono-material packaging, minimising waste with flexible production runs, and cautiously integrating recycled content, ePac is setting a standard for sustainable packaging solutions. As the PPWR continues to evolve, ePac remains committed to advancing its technologies and practices to support a more sustainable and environmentally friendly packaging landscape.
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